Pembrokeshire is following the lead of the French and staging its own version of the Semaine du Golfe, a biennial celebration of traditional craft held in Brittany's Golfe du Morbihan.

Next month's Seafair Haven, which in future will be held on alternate years to the Semaine du Golfe, is expected to attract yoles, gigs, sailing and rowing boats, classic yachts and small traditional boats to Pembrokeshire as well as traditional sailing ships.

Up to 100 vessels can register and 78 have already signed up. Among the large classic boats taking part in the event from June 24 to July 2 will be the Earl of Pembroke, The Kaskalot and The Pickle - but the boat that is expected to generate the most excitement is the replica of the three-masted barque, Dunbrody, making her maiden international voyage from New Ross in County Wexford.

One yachtsman who has signed up to Seafair Haven is Bill Keppel-Compton, who lives and sails in Pembrokeshire. He is entering two classic craft - a 1937 wooden tumlare-class yacht and a Dutch gaffe ketch yacht.

Bill, who lives at Llangwm, reckons the Milford Haven estuary has the right balance of scope and beauty to host this event.

He also believes Seafair Haven will be of interest to many people other than its participants. "Traditional maritime boat festivals are popular throughout Europe,' said Bill. "Seafair Haven will not only enable boat owners to take part in traditional seamanship up and down this wonderful waterway and to come into port, it will also provide opportunities for people to closely view these craft and to enjoy the spectacle of races and other events.'

Races and expeditions are planned and there will be many opportunities for shore side viewing of the craft around the Haven throughout the week. The fleet will gather at Milford Marina and the flotillas will then be hosted by the communities of Neyland, Pembroke, Lawrenny and Dale. The sail and oar craft will be based at Gelliswick and the gigs and longboats at Llangwm The Dunbrody will be alongside Milford Dock from June 24-27 when visitors will be welcome aboard to see actors interpret day to day life on board a famine ship.

There will also be an opportunity to sail around the Pembrokeshire coastline on board the Dunbrody. A day's sailing, including a packed lunch and refreshments, costs £80 and tickets are available from Richard James, Celtic Maritime Connections' project officer, on 01646 696371 or [email protected]">[email protected].